Paramedics, represent the highest level of EMT, and in general, the highest level of prehospital medical provider, though some areas utilize physicians as providers on air ambulances or as a ground provider. Paramedics perform a variety of medical procedures such as endotracheal intubation, fluid resuscitation, drug administration, obtaining intravenous access, cardiac monitoring (continuous and 12-lead), cardioversion, transcutaneous pacing, cricothyrotomy, manual defibrillation, chest needle decompression, and other advanced procedures and assessments. Also, paramedics have an in depth knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.
A Paramedic course is typically 1,800-2,000 hours and several hundred hours of field and hospital clinical time. A written, oral, and psychomotor examination must be completed to obtain your NREMT Paramedic certification.
In order to maintain your Paramedic certification you must complete 60 hours of continuing education every 2 years.